Matt Burton’s Perth Bears decision could come within days, with Bears general manager of football Gareth Holmes saying the NRL newcomers would be open to taking the Bulldogs star in 2027 if Canterbury released him early.
Holmes told the Sydney Morning Herald that the club was waiting on an answer from the representative playmaker. “We’re hoping to find out something from him at the back end of this week. If not, early next week,” he said.
The Herald’s Adrian Proszenko reported that the Bears have tabled Burton a three-year deal starting in 2028. Burton is contracted to the Bulldogs for another year, so any move for Perth’s first season would need Canterbury’s blessing.
Asked whether the Bears would be in a position to take him immediately with an early release, Holmes left the door open.
“It’s something we’d like to look at, but a lot of things would need to happen,” Holmes said. “At the moment we are focused on 2028, because that’s what we’re able to do. We would definitely be open to it and definitely interested.”
Burton spent last weekend touring the Bears’ facilities with his family, according to the Herald. “[Burton] spent time with us on the weekend, we showed him around town. Now he knows about our interest, it’s up to him and his manager to weigh up what the options are. I’m not sure who else has presented to him,” Holmes said.
Read more: Matt Burton in Perth Bears Talks to Reunite With Sexton, Report Says
Marquee allowance in play
The Bears have been granted a 20 per cent marquee salary cap allowance, which lets an existing club sponsor top up one player’s salary. Holmes confirmed the club would use it in its bid for Burton.
“He’s a marquee player, so we would be looking to use that allowance,” he said. “It’s a welcome allowance we have been given and it helps us along.”
The Herald reported the allowance means Burton would earn at least $1.2 million a season if he joins coach Mal Meninga’s side. ESPN reported that the exemption covers only the 2027, 2028 and 2029 seasons, and that any top-up needs a sponsor commitment and approval from the salary cap auditor.
Five-eighth or centre
Canterbury would like to keep Burton but are only prepared to play and pay him as a centre, according to the Herald. In Perth he would be handed the No.6 jersey and reunite with his former Bulldogs halves partner Toby Sexton.
“They have played together and enjoyed some success when they did. It’s something that would be advantageous to us,” Holmes said.
Read more: Perth Bears’ North Sydney Oval Return Blocked by Cricket NSW
The Bears join the NRL in 2027 as the competition’s 18th club. Holmes also said the club was “definitely holding out hope” of staging a trial at North Sydney Oval, with some local cricket matches needing to be moved first.
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